Fear & Loading: Gun Collector Targeted

Armed home invaders knew it was a gun owner they were robbing at 2 a.m. on Jan. 26 in Mississippi. It started with a pistol whipping and escalated to five shots in his legs—perhaps to coerce him to open the gun safe. It’s an ugly reminder for all of us to be careful who discovers you’re a firearm enthusiast.

An official for the Rankin County Sheriff’s office said the victim is recovering from his wounds, but 25 to 30 guns were taken in the heist according to this news report. “…[T]his was not a random act of violence,” the law enforcement agency explained to station WLBT. “The victim was known to at least one of the suspects, and was targeted because he was a firearms collector.”

Federal and state authorities have been called in to aid the investigation. Authorities believe at least three perpetrators were in on the heist, taking guns that range from AR-15s to .38 Spl. revolvers. With the U.S. Marshalls involved, it’s possible at least one of the suspects is a known fugitive.

It’s still unknown how the perpetrators learned about the enthusiast or his collection. At least one news source claims the victim is a firearm dealer.

Regardless of the information’s source, it’s a scary reminder we should be cautious. It’s a shame, too, but even an innocent family member’s comment to a trusted friend could be overheard or relayed to someone with criminal intentions.